Where to begin vol. 2

• The most widely used software of course is QuickBooks Pro®. The majority of the CPA firms use this program because it is easy for their clients to operate. Learn the program inside and out! I guarantee you will be approached by clients to train employees on how to successfully use the software as well as "setting up" your clients" software and complete accounting system. QuickBooks Pro® is around $199.95. but before you buy the software you need to understand the difference between that and the version of software you need to use for your clients. Order and install the Trial Software from Intuit s QuickBooks Pro® website at www.quickbookspro.com. You have 15 uses on this disk. After you are comfortable with the software, and have set up your company's accounting. I suggest that you apply to become a QuickBooks Pro Advisor. The software will be included in the dues for becoming a professional advisor, and you will get all of the benefits of being a Pro-Advisor, like client referrals. You can sign up online at: http://www.intuitadvisor.com/expand_practice/qb_advisor/index.html
• Or call their toll-free number located in the important contacts in the back of this book. Quicken® Turbo Tax® and QuickBooks® are a registered trademark of Intuit®.
• If you order the full software online, it would benefit you more if you signed up for the Pro-advisor program with QuickBooks Pro®. It costs around $299.95 to sign up and take the test. It provides you with discounted rates on your software for your clients, along with putting your name on their website's contact distributor list. You can also become a Certified Pro-Advisor. This test costs around $529.95. which includes the software, and placement at the top of their website contact pro-advisor lists, plus you get to use their trademark name for a Certified Advisor.
• What version of QuickBooks® is important for your service? In the services lesson I will be more detailed on what the software can do for you and your clients, but for now. it is important that you know what type of serv ice you want to provide. If you are going to service" your clients at their office, then the less expensive version of QuickBooks Pro® would be adequate for your needs at your own office. If you will be working via remote access, which is the best timesaving tool because of commuting, there are two options that you must use. QuickBooks Pro® has gotten much more expensive because of the possibilities with the software. It is worth the extra money for the convenience. The software is growing with the client's needs rather then the client outgrowing the software within a few years. For remote access, you will need the Premier Accountant Version of QuickBooks Pro®, for $379.95. This edition is not network ready, but Intuit® is working on it as we speak. Your client will need the Premier Edition costing $379.95 for one user; but this version is network capable with up to 5 users simultaneously on the computer at one time for 5799.95. If they were already a QuickBooks Pro® user, the upgrade is $649.95. As a Pro-Advisor, you can get the software for your clients at up to 20% of suggested retail price. Remember though, when you become a Pro- Advisor. the Premier Accountant version of software is included in your advisor package.